Acid Reflux & Acidity Problems

Acid Reflux & Acidity Problems

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation, inflammation, and symptoms like heartburn. While occasional acid reflux is common, frequent episodes may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acidity problems refer to excessive acid production in the stomach, leading to discomfort, burning sensation, and indigestion. At Blume Health, our gastroenterology team offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for acid reflux and related digestive disorders.

Treatable Condition
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CausesSymptomsDiagnosisTreatmentHome CarePreventionSurgery

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What Causes It?

Weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)

Hiatal hernia (a condition where part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm)

Obesity or pregnancy (which increase pressure on the abdomen)

Certain foods and beverages (spicy, fatty, or fried foods, citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, alcohol)

Smoking

Certain medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, certain muscle relaxers, blood pressure medications)

Eating large meals or lying down right after eating

Stress and anxiety

Delayed stomach emptying

Connective tissue disorders like scleroderma

Signs & Symptoms

Heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest that may spread to the throat)

Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

Feeling like there's a lump in your throat

Chronic cough, especially at night

Laryngitis or hoarseness

Disrupted sleep

New or worsening asthma

Chest pain (which may be confused with heart attack)

Bad breath

Nausea and vomiting

Wearing away of tooth enamel due to excess acid

How We Diagnose

Our specialists use advanced diagnostic methods to accurately identify and assess your condition

Medical History and Physical Examination

Your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) is passed down your throat to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine for inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities.

Ambulatory Acid (pH) Probe Test

A monitor is placed in your esophagus to identify when and for how long stomach acid regurgitates into your esophagus.

Esophageal Manometry

This test measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in your esophagus when you swallow and the coordination and force exerted by the muscles of your esophagus.

X-ray of the Upper Digestive System

After drinking a chalky liquid that coats and fills the inside lining of the digestive tract, X-rays are taken that may reveal a hiatal hernia or other structural abnormalities.

Treatment Options

Personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and condition

1

Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications

Changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down after eating, elevating the head of your bed, quitting smoking, and managing stress can significantly reduce symptoms.

2

Medications

Over-the-counter and prescription medications including antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and prokinetics can help neutralize stomach acid, reduce acid production, or strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.

3

Surgical and Endoscopic Procedures

For severe cases that don't respond to other treatments, procedures like fundoplication (wrapping the top of the stomach around the LES), LINX device implantation, or endoscopic techniques may be recommended.

Home Remedies

Elevate the Head of Your Bed

Raise the head of your bed 6-8 inches by placing blocks under the bedposts or using a wedge pillow under your mattress to help gravity keep stomach acid in the stomach while you sleep.

Avoid Trigger Foods

Identify and avoid foods that trigger your acid reflux, commonly including spicy foods, fatty foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, and carbonated beverages.

Eat Smaller Meals

Having smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large meals can reduce pressure on the stomach and minimize acid reflux.

Stay Upright After Eating

Wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down or going to bed to give your stomach time to empty.

Ginger Tea

Drinking ginger tea can help soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation, potentially easing acid reflux symptoms.

Prevention Tips

Maintain a healthy weight

Eat smaller, more frequent meals

Avoid foods and beverages that trigger your symptoms

Don't lie down right after eating

Elevate the head of your bed

Don't smoke or use tobacco products

Limit or avoid alcohol

Wear loose-fitting clothes around your waist

Manage stress through relaxation techniques

Stay upright for at least 2-3 hours after meals

Surgical Solutions

Advanced surgical procedures performed by our expert specialists

Fundoplication

A surgical procedure where the upper part of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the lower end of the esophagus and stitched in place. This strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter and helps prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. It can be performed as an open surgery or laparoscopically.

LINX Device

A ring of tiny magnetic beads is wrapped around the junction between the stomach and esophagus. The magnetic attraction between the beads is strong enough to keep the opening closed to refluxing acid but weak enough to allow food to pass through.

Stretta Procedure

An endoscopic, non-surgical procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and the muscle of the lower esophagus.

Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)

A less invasive approach to fundoplication that is performed through the mouth using an endoscope rather than through abdominal incisions.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Our specialists are here to provide expert care for acid reflux & acidity problems. Schedule your consultation today.

Book Appointment OnlineCall: (040) 4402 0000

📞 Available Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM